The Contours of Man and Mountain – Photo by Jed

The Contours of Man and Mountain – Photo by Jed

I don’t consider myself an accomplished landscape photographer. My fascination with people and stories of everyday life have been my focus. However, on our one day excursion up to the Dolomites, which was just one and a half hours’ drive from Treviso, I gave myself to focus on landscapes, for a change, and see what presented itself. Being a novice in this regard, I had absolutely nothing to lose.

So, I took some of the advice I’ve given in earlier emails about finding your voice, and..

I gave myself permission to play.

I’m still editing and jettisoning other images, but I had a blast. And, if I end up with just four or five images that feel good, then I’m happy.

I won’t fall into the trap of explaining too much about my work, so I promise to keep this post brief. The short story is that we had spent a few hours in Cortina and, after a thoroughly satisfying lunch (more on that in an upcoming post), we pointed the car toward Passo di Giau, one of the most spectacular vantage points in the Dolomites.

Just before taking the photo above, you would’ve found me lying on my back alongside the winding road up to the summit, taking photos of the motorcycles speeding by. I also was making friends with some bovine beautfies relaxing in the grass. Then we drove to the top, parked, and started walking up to the peak.

And then, opportunity knocked…

I was marveling at the panoramic view of the Dolomites, and wondering how I could do them justice without turning my view into yet another picture postcard. I let go of my expectations and then I saw this man sitting in the grass with the sunlight raking across his shoulder and his profile. I grabbed my camera, and took about six images. I double checked my settings to make sure I hadn’t set myself up for failure. But the moment was brief, and the scene, and his body language was already starting to change. It wasn’t until I was home the next day and had downloaded the images did I know if I had an image that was decent.

The devil is in the details, and the detail I love in this image is the man’s craggy, and very Roman profile. This isn’t some young, perfect Adonis, yet his physique has a quality and a magnificence that mirrors that of the Dolomites.

Art is subjective, so I only can say I am happy with the final result. What speaks to me might not speak to you. But, at least this photo gives you a glimpse into what draws my attention and why.

I hope you enjoy! And, don’t be shy about offering your perspective and feedback!

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